A community celebration will be held in Kiama on Thursday for national R U OK? Day. The event at the Kiama Pavilion will be hosted by the Illawarra Shoalhaven Suicide Prevention Collaborative, which will outline what's been happening to prevent suicide in the region - and how everyone can get involved. The event - from 8.30am to 10.30am - will feature music and poetry performances, a panel with people who have lived experience of suicide, a mini documentary screening, and the launch of the collaborative's first Report Card. It will also feature 'Living Books', a healing circle where people with lived experience share their stories; and a video booth, where anyone can share and record their story. The free event is open to anyone in the community, including health professionals and those with lived experience. "Suicide affects people from all walks of life. It has a ripple effect across the entire community," collaborative regional manager Dr Alex Hains said. "That's why friends, family, neighbours and workmates all need to do their bit to check in with someone who might be struggling and ask R U OK? Simply asking the questions can help save a life." RSVP to the event at suicideprevention@coordinare.org.au

Everyone welcome at R U OK? Day event to be held in Kiama

Illawarra Shoalhaven Suicide Prevention Collaborative regional manager Dr Alex Hains says we all have a role to play in suicide prevention.

A community celebration will be held in Kiama on Thursday for national R U OK? Day.

The event at the Kiama Pavilion will be hosted by the Illawarra Shoalhaven Suicide Prevention Collaborative, which will outline what's been happening to prevent suicide in the region - and how everyone can get involved.

The event - from 8.30am to 10.30am - will feature music and poetry performances, a panel with people who have lived experience of suicide, a mini documentary screening, and the launch of the collaborative's first Report Card.

It will also feature 'Living Books', a healing circle where people with lived experience share their stories; and a video booth, where anyone can share and record their story.

The free event is open to anyone in the community, including health professionals and those with lived experience.

"Suicide affects people from all walks of life. It has a ripple effect across the entire community," collaborative regional manager Dr Alex Hains said.

"That's why friends, family, neighbours and workmates all need to do their bit to check in with someone who might be struggling and ask R U OK? Simply asking the questions can help save a life."